IC Challenge FAQ's

Cost

Most IC Challenges are sponsored by an organization or business. These Challenges are free to schools but may have limits on geographic locations, age/grade level and participant numbers.

In the near future, Inspired Classroom will offer IC Challenges for students without restrictions. There will be nominal per class fee for participation. We are also hoping to offer scholarships to schools unable to pay the fee.

Content

Are IC Challenges connected to any standards?

21st Century Skills:

Various content standard in the discipline areas are aligned to IC Challenges depending on the topic. The focus for IC Challenges are the process standards for problem solving and critical thinking. Examples of those include:

Math Practice Standards in the Common CoreMake Sense of Problems and Persevere in Solving Them. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.English Language ArtsCommon Core ELA standards stress critical-thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are required for success in college, career, and life.Next Generation Science StandardsStudents will concentrate on asking questions, developing hypotheses, testing models, and making evidence-based arguments.

Who will be reviewing my students' work?

Student work will be reviewed by a panel of topical experts. Experts may include presenters, members from the sponsoring organization or business, or educators.

If we are unable to attend a live, Interactive Distance Learning (IDL) Event will my class be able to access the content?

Yes, a recording of the event will be loaded onto the student and teacher resource page after the event has taken place.

Technology

What technology is required?

Students will need access to a computer or Tablet/iPad to access the IC Challenge content.

During an Interactive Distance Learning (IDL) Event, teachers will need to use either video conferencing equipment OR a computer/laptop that is hardwired to the internet and has a video camera (internal or external), a microphone (internal or external) and is connected to a projector/Smart Board. Inspired Classroom will work with teachers to test connections before an event.

If you are participating in an IDL Event and you are streaming the event (Click here for an IC video on Streaming Tips) you will need to make sure your computer is connected to a projector/Smart Board and that you have speakers adequate for all students to hear.